Guess what? It's 3:46 A.M and I'm wide awake....and bored. A zillion channels and the best I can do is watch "The Dark Knight" again. So, let me begin......I know everyone is hanging on every word, so here are my thoughts on a few things....
Politics
I am doing some volunteering for a local candidate and one of the things I do is talk to folks going door to door. Yeah, I know, who would answer the door for me. Alas, it's actually very interesting what some of the folks in and around here have to say in general. For example, the other day I was talking to this very nice lady. As most conversations go, it was pretty tame. We chatted about the weather and whatnot. I decided (BIG MISTAKE) to bring up our POTUS (President of the..) and here is, and Im paraphasing here, the conversation.
Clay- So, what did you think about the State of the Union address the other night?
Nice Lady- What's that?
Clay- Uhh...you know, the President gave a speech last night? You might not have seen it. (At this point, I know I'm in deep doo-doo)
Nice Lady- I hate that Son of a (Female Dog) He's the devil, I tell you. He's been sent by Satan to destroy this country, and he is a (derogatory racial slur that ends in "ger") and anyone that voted for him is going to burn in hell.
Clay- Ok, well...please be sure to vote and have a nice day.
As I walked to the next house, it dawned on me that this line of thinking was not only shocking, but fairly common. Hey, I think Obama has definetely not done very well overall, but I think that biblical references are a bit harsh. I wrote a long time ago that although I have always been a Republican, I would have voted for him a year ago, so I'm not going to bash him too much. Like a lot of folks, I drank the Kool-Aid and felt the country needed a new direction. Personally, I think that Obama has done something that is fairly common in politics. He's overpromised and under delivered. That being said, has anything changed for the better since the election? food for thought.
Sports
I really would think it would be a great story if the Saints won the Super Bowl. I mean, I grew up with New Orleans fans with bags on their heads. After all, the "Aints" have been one of the worst sport franchises in all of sports and now they could win the Super Bowl....that's pretty cool. Of course, anything positive after Katrina would be awesome. That being said, I'm picking Indy (and my personal nemesis, Peyton Manning) to win....35-31.
Does anyone care the Winter Olympics are coming up?
I think UT is better off now than it was. Let's face it, Lame Kitten was not a good fit for Knoxville. Now, UT has a coach that cares more about winning than getting his name in the paper. I'm a little nervous that they went and got a Nick Saban disciple to boot.
Kentucky is really good, but Kansas is the best college basketball team out there. **What a shocker that they lost in Knoxville after the suspensions. Bruce Pearl is the best coach in the SEC...period.
Roll Tide Roll (had to go there, sorry)
Movies and Books
Edge of Darkness C
Zombieland B
The Hurt Locker A
Avatar B
Youth in Revolt B+
Up in the Air A
Me and Cheryl are on a quest to knock out the American Film Institute's Top 100 movies of all time. As a movie nerd, Ive seen about 70 of them, but the last two weekends we have waded thru: "The Godfather" "One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest" "Goodfellas" and "Casablanca" So far, so good, even though I got a comment about how we needed to stray from Gangster flicks, so it's chick flicks for awhile.
I haven't read a decent (and new to me) book in a while. I'm streaky that way. I'll go thru a book or two a week for a spell, then nada. I did just finish "The Godfather" again. What a great book. Has anyone read anything cool? Im out of the loop
This is boring...even by my standards....what else is there?
I nearly ended up in the hospital this week for two separate, but bizarre events. I mean, I'm the guy that had a 2 inch splinter pulled out of his butt once (don't ask) so I'm used to strange crap happening to me, so falling down in someone's driveway is pretty tame, but getting bitten by a 12 year old cat is different. Yeah, Cheryl's demon cat kicked my ass the other night. I tried to pick it up and it had other ideas. I was bleeding profusely from both hands and figured it would get infected. Wouldn't that have been a hoot if I ended up infected and in the ER with a pussy cat bite. HA!
I'm taking a high powered narcotic called Avinza. Yeah, it's a time released Morphine drug. Needless to say, I can't have a beer for awhile. My back (ad nauseum) has been just plain awful lately, so my doctor gave me a shot on top of prescribing something Elvis would have shunned. So, if you see me and I try to touch your face with a glazed look in my eyes, don't mind it. I won't remember it anyway. I make fun, but seriously, look it up.
I've gained 26 pounds back. I didn't want it. It took a lot to drop almost 70 pounds. It took like 4 hours to gain all that back. I don't have any idea what I can wear anymore. Depressing.
My Xmas tree is still up. Oddly, a lit tree is soothing to me. I don't know why. So, if you end up at my crib, don't mind it. I'm aware it's February.
Are the other 11 months "Anti-Black History Month?"
That's it. The Joker is about to make a pencil disappear. God bless.
Clayyyyy
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Monday, January 25, 2010
Death in Life.
Let me explain my title. There is so much death in life. I mean, we humans, we experience the hurt of a loved one a lot before it's all said and done. That's tough.
My poor, precious Emmamonster lost another grandparent today. That's three out of four, but who is counting? **HEY DAD!!! STOP SMOKING!!!! YOU ARE IT!!! WE NEED YOU!!!
no pressure.
My ex-wife Debbie called me this afternoon and was upset. She said, "My dad died!" After all the battles, the fights, the pettiness, the tragedy of it all, I snapped to attention in full "husband" mode. I knew the man, and his relationship with Debbie. It deserved all my respect. I don't ever mention Debbie very much. It's partly because she would prefer it that way, and I've been ashamed to say anything, to be honest.
See, the cruelty of this, is that despite being a great mother, wife, daughter, and friend, she has lost the backbone of the family. Debbie is such a wonderful person, and just deserves better..period.
Not only did my ex suffer a devasting blow, but anyone connected to either one of us lost an outstanding example of what a man should be. Jerry was the toughest S.O.B I've ever been around. Let me give you a couple of examples, Jerry was shot while serving in the Navy...twice.
After retiring from the Navy in a teaching capacity, he rebuilt boats....and I mean the "Tiger Woods" types. Floating mansions. I remember Jerry telling me one time that 9 out of 10 repairs he ordered were because of someone not knowing what they were doing driving a boat....or mansion.
While working at Ross Marine, a crane fell on him. Uh, I have a great story about how I got this little scar above my eye...WHAT???? Yeah, a crane fell on him. One of those big suckers we see everyday off of I-75. The boom broke off of one of them and crushed him underneath. He took some surgery, rubbed dirt on it, and went back to work.
The only thing that defined him better as a man was that he was a devoted husband, and loyal father. From my perspective, Jerry's sole purpose was to serve his two daughters, her name is Christie, and his wife Pat. Pat died shortly before Emma was born. I believe it was September of 2000. Jerry was what most guys would call "A man's man." As far as father-in-law's go, I got lucky.
I think everyone that came across Jerry ended up better for it. I think that's the ultimate compliment. He made everyone, and everything better.
RIP
My poor, precious Emmamonster lost another grandparent today. That's three out of four, but who is counting? **HEY DAD!!! STOP SMOKING!!!! YOU ARE IT!!! WE NEED YOU!!!
no pressure.
My ex-wife Debbie called me this afternoon and was upset. She said, "My dad died!" After all the battles, the fights, the pettiness, the tragedy of it all, I snapped to attention in full "husband" mode. I knew the man, and his relationship with Debbie. It deserved all my respect. I don't ever mention Debbie very much. It's partly because she would prefer it that way, and I've been ashamed to say anything, to be honest.
See, the cruelty of this, is that despite being a great mother, wife, daughter, and friend, she has lost the backbone of the family. Debbie is such a wonderful person, and just deserves better..period.
Not only did my ex suffer a devasting blow, but anyone connected to either one of us lost an outstanding example of what a man should be. Jerry was the toughest S.O.B I've ever been around. Let me give you a couple of examples, Jerry was shot while serving in the Navy...twice.
After retiring from the Navy in a teaching capacity, he rebuilt boats....and I mean the "Tiger Woods" types. Floating mansions. I remember Jerry telling me one time that 9 out of 10 repairs he ordered were because of someone not knowing what they were doing driving a boat....or mansion.
While working at Ross Marine, a crane fell on him. Uh, I have a great story about how I got this little scar above my eye...WHAT???? Yeah, a crane fell on him. One of those big suckers we see everyday off of I-75. The boom broke off of one of them and crushed him underneath. He took some surgery, rubbed dirt on it, and went back to work.
The only thing that defined him better as a man was that he was a devoted husband, and loyal father. From my perspective, Jerry's sole purpose was to serve his two daughters, her name is Christie, and his wife Pat. Pat died shortly before Emma was born. I believe it was September of 2000. Jerry was what most guys would call "A man's man." As far as father-in-law's go, I got lucky.
I think everyone that came across Jerry ended up better for it. I think that's the ultimate compliment. He made everyone, and everything better.
RIP
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Harlem Globetrotter Story (before edit)
Imagine a basketball circus. Clowns, acrobatics, and some pretty good basketball all mixed in meant that the legendary "Harlem Globetrotters" were in the building. In front of a big crowd at McKenzie Arena last Wednesday night, the clown princes of basketball put on a show.
For 84 years, the Globetrotters have traversed the world entertaining millions. They have played for both President's and Pope's. For one night, Chattanooga held the privilege.
There is so much more to going to see the 'Trotters play than basketball. The comedic act that is performed on the hardwood would rival comedy preformed on any stage. And yes, they threw water on some poor folks sitting up front, just like they always have.
The leader of the 'Trotters was "Special K." K was about 6-7 or so and pretty lean, but his mouth was a non-stop narrative of what was going on. While performing dazzling stunts with a basketball, "K" was telling a joke, talking trash, or asking a fan for some popcorn.
Everybody for the Globetrotters had a cool name. "Ant" and "Scooter" were two of my favorites. The referees were aloof and were played the fool, and who can argue with that?
A couple of poor fans were pulled out on the court. Unfortunately, the general public does not have a good free throw percentage. I saw 11 straight bricks go up before one shot mercifully went in. A "Bronx cheer" went up as the awkwardness faded away.
Oh, the game itself. Well, the foil to our heroic Globetrotters would be the Washington Generals. The Generals play the Globetrotters night after night, and guess what, they have never won. Imagine a dream where you lose over and over. The Generals, dressed in green and yellow, kept the game close enough to make it interesting for the kids that didn't know any better.
The Globetrotters play basketball as if they were on roller skates and there were trampolines in every direction. The 'Trotters have a play in which they run every time on offense. It's called the "weave" and each player passes and then loops around a larger player in a figure eight pattern. At the center tonight was "Special K," verbally directing traffic as the basketball was moving from player to player like a dizzying effect.
Finally, "Special K" would rap up his bit, and either bounce it off the floor, off the backboard, or any other conceivable way in order the other players could take turns trying to bend the rims with one dazzling dunk after another.
The final score was 73-67, and it was punctuated by a furious, teeth rattling jam..over a referee unaware below. That's how you call it a night.
[Photo]
For 84 years, the Globetrotters have traversed the world entertaining millions. They have played for both President's and Pope's. For one night, Chattanooga held the privilege.
There is so much more to going to see the 'Trotters play than basketball. The comedic act that is performed on the hardwood would rival comedy preformed on any stage. And yes, they threw water on some poor folks sitting up front, just like they always have.
The leader of the 'Trotters was "Special K." K was about 6-7 or so and pretty lean, but his mouth was a non-stop narrative of what was going on. While performing dazzling stunts with a basketball, "K" was telling a joke, talking trash, or asking a fan for some popcorn.
Everybody for the Globetrotters had a cool name. "Ant" and "Scooter" were two of my favorites. The referees were aloof and were played the fool, and who can argue with that?
A couple of poor fans were pulled out on the court. Unfortunately, the general public does not have a good free throw percentage. I saw 11 straight bricks go up before one shot mercifully went in. A "Bronx cheer" went up as the awkwardness faded away.
Oh, the game itself. Well, the foil to our heroic Globetrotters would be the Washington Generals. The Generals play the Globetrotters night after night, and guess what, they have never won. Imagine a dream where you lose over and over. The Generals, dressed in green and yellow, kept the game close enough to make it interesting for the kids that didn't know any better.
The Globetrotters play basketball as if they were on roller skates and there were trampolines in every direction. The 'Trotters have a play in which they run every time on offense. It's called the "weave" and each player passes and then loops around a larger player in a figure eight pattern. At the center tonight was "Special K," verbally directing traffic as the basketball was moving from player to player like a dizzying effect.
Finally, "Special K" would rap up his bit, and either bounce it off the floor, off the backboard, or any other conceivable way in order the other players could take turns trying to bend the rims with one dazzling dunk after another.
The final score was 73-67, and it was punctuated by a furious, teeth rattling jam..over a referee unaware below. That's how you call it a night.
[Photo]
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Scenes from an 8th grade basketball game....
First, let me say I'm sorry. I have spent the last 6 months with one sad blog after another. When did I get so mellow?
I have had an opportunity to go to some local basketball games of late. Specifically, I've been watching Lake Forest's teams. Junior High, excuse me, Middle School basketball sure has changed.
The other night, not only did we stand for the national anthem, but someone came out and sang it. I thought I was at a Yankees game. Next thing I hear is my own father's voice booming from behind a microphone, letting the maybe 150 folks in attendance, know the starting lineups. I was freaking out. The atmosphere was intimidating. A true home court advantage for sure.
See, I played at Bradley Junior from 1987-1989. It was old-school. Practice consisted of nothing but fundamentals: like ball handling drills, defensive positioning, and most importantly....conditioning. The three point line came out when I was in 8th grade. It was considered to be an "evil" part of the game. I'd say that you would see maybe 1 or 2 shots from downtown a night.
At Lake Forest, it was raining threes....and behind the back passes......dribbling between legs.....players animated. At first I thought, this is sacrilege. These boys don't know how to play. Turns out, I got used to it.
So, as I sit at the scorers table watching the game in a chair designed for pre-schoolers, and sitting by my father, a wind blew through the gymnasium. Kinda like someone broke wind.
Where were you when you heard Lane Kiffin had left UT? Now, let that sink in a bit. Sports fan or not, it was news. Even though an earthquake destroyed Haiti earlier, the buzzword was Lane Kiffin. Let me play this out as it happened......
A couple of kids came up to my father and taunted him by saying, "Lane Kiffin to USC." I figured that they were given my Dad a hard time because he's such a fan.
Dad: Uh, oh. That's Charles. (Charles is my grandfather, who lives in Memphis, TN, and graduated from Tennessee...a big fan)
Clay: Maybe there is something to this. (I then turn behind me and ask Cheryl for her PINK Blackberry, wanting to look up ESPN.com)
Clay: Yeah, Dad. It says here that Kiffin is leaving..taking his Dad and Orgeron.
My father reached over and picked up the microphone. "Ladies and Gentlemen, ESPN is reporting that Tennessee football coach Lane Kiffin has resigned from UT and is taking a job at USC."
Folks, I'm sitting right next my Dad. I'm in an Alabama pullover, with a white Alabama toboggan. I'm also holding a pink blackberry. I was convinced I was about to be hit with a bottle in the back of the head.
The basketball ceased to exist. One of the Lake Forest coaches looked over and said, "Really?" Several shouts from the crowd went out. Three complete strangers came to the table and had questions. I could hear some choice words as well. Something like, $@#$ Kiffin, or something about his mother.
Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you football in the South...or more specifically Cleveland, TN. As I write this, I have been fortunate to be on the sidelines of an NCAA basketball tournament, but that moment at Lake Forest Middle School was about the most intense scene I've ever been around. As I said, about 150 people.
Lake Forest won by the way.
Clayyyy
I have had an opportunity to go to some local basketball games of late. Specifically, I've been watching Lake Forest's teams. Junior High, excuse me, Middle School basketball sure has changed.
The other night, not only did we stand for the national anthem, but someone came out and sang it. I thought I was at a Yankees game. Next thing I hear is my own father's voice booming from behind a microphone, letting the maybe 150 folks in attendance, know the starting lineups. I was freaking out. The atmosphere was intimidating. A true home court advantage for sure.
See, I played at Bradley Junior from 1987-1989. It was old-school. Practice consisted of nothing but fundamentals: like ball handling drills, defensive positioning, and most importantly....conditioning. The three point line came out when I was in 8th grade. It was considered to be an "evil" part of the game. I'd say that you would see maybe 1 or 2 shots from downtown a night.
At Lake Forest, it was raining threes....and behind the back passes......dribbling between legs.....players animated. At first I thought, this is sacrilege. These boys don't know how to play. Turns out, I got used to it.
So, as I sit at the scorers table watching the game in a chair designed for pre-schoolers, and sitting by my father, a wind blew through the gymnasium. Kinda like someone broke wind.
Where were you when you heard Lane Kiffin had left UT? Now, let that sink in a bit. Sports fan or not, it was news. Even though an earthquake destroyed Haiti earlier, the buzzword was Lane Kiffin. Let me play this out as it happened......
A couple of kids came up to my father and taunted him by saying, "Lane Kiffin to USC." I figured that they were given my Dad a hard time because he's such a fan.
Dad: Uh, oh. That's Charles. (Charles is my grandfather, who lives in Memphis, TN, and graduated from Tennessee...a big fan)
Clay: Maybe there is something to this. (I then turn behind me and ask Cheryl for her PINK Blackberry, wanting to look up ESPN.com)
Clay: Yeah, Dad. It says here that Kiffin is leaving..taking his Dad and Orgeron.
My father reached over and picked up the microphone. "Ladies and Gentlemen, ESPN is reporting that Tennessee football coach Lane Kiffin has resigned from UT and is taking a job at USC."
Folks, I'm sitting right next my Dad. I'm in an Alabama pullover, with a white Alabama toboggan. I'm also holding a pink blackberry. I was convinced I was about to be hit with a bottle in the back of the head.
The basketball ceased to exist. One of the Lake Forest coaches looked over and said, "Really?" Several shouts from the crowd went out. Three complete strangers came to the table and had questions. I could hear some choice words as well. Something like, $@#$ Kiffin, or something about his mother.
Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you football in the South...or more specifically Cleveland, TN. As I write this, I have been fortunate to be on the sidelines of an NCAA basketball tournament, but that moment at Lake Forest Middle School was about the most intense scene I've ever been around. As I said, about 150 people.
Lake Forest won by the way.
Clayyyy
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Happy New Year's
2010....who would have thunk it? I'd be sitting here typing this mess. I am at, what I would consider the greatest crossroad of my life. Here, now, it's more important than any other time in my life. Why?
I'm 35 years old. I think if I get lucky, I might be halfway complete with my life. Yeah, I seriously doubt I'll be so spry at 70. Since I'm a little past halfway through life, n0w would be a good time for some self-assessment.
Let's do this a simple way. Pros vs. Cons.
Pro.....I am the luckiest son of a bitch in the world to have a beautiful girl, who is kind, gentle, and my daughter.
Con......I live 420 miles away from her. Is there not a greater irony of my life in which I live so far away from what gives me strength? Something must change.
Pro- As luck would shine down on me again, I have fallen for someone. Yep, little different this time though. I'm comfortable in my own skin with her. I'm never comfortable, even if I'm asleep.
Con- It makes me nervous. (Only me)
Pro I have found God. It's not time for me to lay it down, but for the first time, I not looking straight down when I walk. There is a sense of purpose.
Con- I'm terrified.
I like that old saying. "Wherever you go, there you are," it seems right. For all the mediocrity and worse that I have put up with, there is still time. Lots of it, really. My decisions during this time will not only affect me, but those that I care for. The last time I felt like this was....well....it was another time. Anyway.......
clayyyy
I hope everyone enjoyed themselves over the holidays. Emma was here for a week and we set a new land speed recored in order to get everything done. God Bless.
I'm 35 years old. I think if I get lucky, I might be halfway complete with my life. Yeah, I seriously doubt I'll be so spry at 70. Since I'm a little past halfway through life, n0w would be a good time for some self-assessment.
Let's do this a simple way. Pros vs. Cons.
Pro.....I am the luckiest son of a bitch in the world to have a beautiful girl, who is kind, gentle, and my daughter.
Con......I live 420 miles away from her. Is there not a greater irony of my life in which I live so far away from what gives me strength? Something must change.
Pro- As luck would shine down on me again, I have fallen for someone. Yep, little different this time though. I'm comfortable in my own skin with her. I'm never comfortable, even if I'm asleep.
Con- It makes me nervous. (Only me)
Pro I have found God. It's not time for me to lay it down, but for the first time, I not looking straight down when I walk. There is a sense of purpose.
Con- I'm terrified.
I like that old saying. "Wherever you go, there you are," it seems right. For all the mediocrity and worse that I have put up with, there is still time. Lots of it, really. My decisions during this time will not only affect me, but those that I care for. The last time I felt like this was....well....it was another time. Anyway.......
clayyyy
I hope everyone enjoyed themselves over the holidays. Emma was here for a week and we set a new land speed recored in order to get everything done. God Bless.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Christmas back in the day
As I write this, I must admit that I am tearing up. I don't know exactly why, but I am. I think it's because I am remembering a tradition that was held for many, many years.
Christmas Eve was a very special time for my family. There was a time when my immediate family would come together for one night and put our differences aside.
It was a time that we would go around the room and open presents. My cousin and I would get the same exact thing from my Nana and Papaw. Everything was the same, right down to the matching sets of underwear. I remember one time David and I got ink pens that opened up like switchblades. How cool is that? Of course, there were some stinkers in there as well.
Most memorable was the purple sweatsuit that Nana got me. David's was navy if I remember correctly, but mine was Barney like purple. I've told this story before, but when I tried it on, I looked like "Grimace." Nana replied, "Clay, that just looks great on you." How could I argue with that.
My job was to make "Whispers." A "Whisper" is a delightful concoction that I learned how to make back in my bartending days. It's Vanilla ice cream, Bailey's Irish Creme, Hazelnut Liquor, and a little milk. The only time I have ever seen my Nana take a sip of alcohol was on Christmas Eve. Her cheeks would get a little red.
My memories of my kid sister come to mind. She had that red hair that seemed to glow against the colors of Christmas. She would bounce around in a cute dress from one person to another. Always so happy and affectionate. Steph was everyone's little favorite, especially with my Papaw. It such a great memory to see Stephanie sitting in Papaw's lap. You know what it's like to sit in that lap, you might as well sit upon a throne. Steph was the princess.
My Mom and Aunt Jane seemed to interchange in the kitchen. Sausage balls, those little weenie things in BBQ sauce, every dip imaginable......the food just kept coming. My mother would always burn the rolls, but it was to be expected. The woman never saw a timer she liked.
As the evening would seemingly come to a close, the music would start. Each Uncle, Step-Dad, son, daughter would have a chance to play a song. Inevitably, there would be dancing. Steph would stand on a chair. Nana and Papaw would kiss each other for a split second. (PDA was frowned upon, I guess) and finally I would get to dance with my mom. Each year, I would get a little taller. Mom was 5-10, so it took a long time to look into those brown eyes, but I finally caught up. She would tell me she loved me, and I her. I miss her very much. I miss everyone very much.
Now, time has moved on. Some have passed on gracefully like my hero Grandfather. Some have died too young. Some have their own families, and some have moved away. But I still remember every single moment.
I was lucky. If you still bother to read this, please don't take it for granted. Celebrate each other as hard as you can. It won't last forever.
Merry Xmas. Love to everyone.
Clay
Christmas Eve was a very special time for my family. There was a time when my immediate family would come together for one night and put our differences aside.
It was a time that we would go around the room and open presents. My cousin and I would get the same exact thing from my Nana and Papaw. Everything was the same, right down to the matching sets of underwear. I remember one time David and I got ink pens that opened up like switchblades. How cool is that? Of course, there were some stinkers in there as well.
Most memorable was the purple sweatsuit that Nana got me. David's was navy if I remember correctly, but mine was Barney like purple. I've told this story before, but when I tried it on, I looked like "Grimace." Nana replied, "Clay, that just looks great on you." How could I argue with that.
My job was to make "Whispers." A "Whisper" is a delightful concoction that I learned how to make back in my bartending days. It's Vanilla ice cream, Bailey's Irish Creme, Hazelnut Liquor, and a little milk. The only time I have ever seen my Nana take a sip of alcohol was on Christmas Eve. Her cheeks would get a little red.
My memories of my kid sister come to mind. She had that red hair that seemed to glow against the colors of Christmas. She would bounce around in a cute dress from one person to another. Always so happy and affectionate. Steph was everyone's little favorite, especially with my Papaw. It such a great memory to see Stephanie sitting in Papaw's lap. You know what it's like to sit in that lap, you might as well sit upon a throne. Steph was the princess.
My Mom and Aunt Jane seemed to interchange in the kitchen. Sausage balls, those little weenie things in BBQ sauce, every dip imaginable......the food just kept coming. My mother would always burn the rolls, but it was to be expected. The woman never saw a timer she liked.
As the evening would seemingly come to a close, the music would start. Each Uncle, Step-Dad, son, daughter would have a chance to play a song. Inevitably, there would be dancing. Steph would stand on a chair. Nana and Papaw would kiss each other for a split second. (PDA was frowned upon, I guess) and finally I would get to dance with my mom. Each year, I would get a little taller. Mom was 5-10, so it took a long time to look into those brown eyes, but I finally caught up. She would tell me she loved me, and I her. I miss her very much. I miss everyone very much.
Now, time has moved on. Some have passed on gracefully like my hero Grandfather. Some have died too young. Some have their own families, and some have moved away. But I still remember every single moment.
I was lucky. If you still bother to read this, please don't take it for granted. Celebrate each other as hard as you can. It won't last forever.
Merry Xmas. Love to everyone.
Clay
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Thanksgiving
So, my family went in all directions over Thanksgiving. Emmamonster was staying with her Mom over the break, but I was fortunate to have very special friends (Chris and Jenny) that invited me over for dinner. I got more than I bargained for. I was expecting to just eat my weight and leave, but I found a new perspective for family and friends.
Of course, the most pressing thing was the awkwardness that comes when you are someone's house and are going through the introductions. For some reason, I feel so awful when this happens. I'm a very outgoing person naturally, but I equate introductions to an inquisition. "Hi, my name is Clay. Do you mind if I give you my life story before we sit down." It's just insecurity of course, but I do it every single time.
The first thing I noticed was how beautiful everyone's kids were. I just sat there gawking at these children that were all dressed up in their "Sunday" best, for just this occasion. My eyes were especially glued to this angelic little girl, whose name now escapes me. I mean, figure skating was on the TV, so "people watching" was what I was forced to do. You ever notice how sweet kids are when they are trying to integrate into the group? They slowly walk up and want to play....they have this sheepish look......they don't know what to say......finally, they get the courage and the next thing you know, they are breaking and tearing stuff up just like the other kids. It's a lot like dating....actually. But, I digress.
The entire time it was all I could muster not to tear up, because I was thinking about Emma. Emma was in Spartanburg with her cousins, but I wanted to be there....each kid that walked in front of me was a little older than the next. So, suddenly I was delving deep into my brain to remember Emma at 3, then at 5, then 7. My fondest Thanksgiving memory was when Emma was 4. Emma was really beginning to become chatty. I just remember her sitting on my stomach as we split some ice cream. "More, Daddy, quit eating all of it" I was inches from cracking up and crying a couple of times, but I knew I would have other opportunities to make an ass of myself...sure enough I did not disappoint.
Of course, you can't have a holiday without a few Griswald moments to go along. Speaking of which. "Christmas Vacation" has now officially replaced "A Christmas Story" as the movie to watch over the holidays. "Hey Clark, Shitter's full," says Uncle Eddie. That is just classic. Anyway, back to my Turkey day adventure. So, I was on my way to get my second helping of food when I made a big boo boo. I had somehow or another spilled something all over my lap. In addition, for the zillionth time, my fly was down. Why can't I remember something that most 3rd graders mastered while in Kingergarten. I think I'm just lazy when it comes to that, or I think that I am perpetually in pajama pants. How in the world did I get cranberry sauce on my pants....My entire purpose of the day was to get out alive. I should have prayed for not embarrassing myself while I was at it. No dice.
Well, I played it off pretty cool like, or so I thought. Slight of hand and all. As I am trying to clean myself out...while looking cool, I look up and yep, one of these cute little kids is looking at me like I was the boogeyman himself. It's bad enough that I wasn't family, but now I looked like a hobo with bladder issues. The little one took off in a Usain Bolt. I was terrified that I was going to have to explain my sheer lack of coordination to an angry parent that I just meant. Time to go, Clay.
Thanksgiving is not even near the top of the list of favorite holidays. I really didn't understand what it's all about. I mean, are we really celebrating pilgrims...Indians....whatever. I don't get it exactly. The part where we "give thanks" is where I get lost. I thought Thankgiving was the day before "Black Friday" As I stood in the middle of a room with mostly strangers, I finally figured it out. These folks are thankful for each other....for their family, their mothers, their cousins...it has nothing to do with the Cowboy game on the TV or the really good food we are about to devour.
My problem is that my family has divided into other families. My sister celebrates with her husband and his family. My daughter is with her mother and her family.....Nana even went out with some friends. My Dad has his family now. So, what's my family? I dunno. I've got Willie, but no one that shares my last name is stopping by. Why is that? My guess is that family's evolve.....and keep evolving.
I think I want more family. I miss it. Christmas is coming up and it's bittersweet.....sweet mostly, but you cannot have a holiday without thinking of those you have lost...and the ones you have, so I December is emotional, I guess. The good news is that the Monster will be here for a while and that's my present. Of course, she has ordered me to get a Xmas tree. I really was hoping I was through all the pageantry of Xmas, but when you have a 9 year old...forgeddaboutit.
It's not about being blessed more than others...It's not a race. It's not like Facebook where you can say.."Hey, I've got 229 friends." I just need one....thankfully.
I hope everyone had a good Thanksgiving.....see you soon.
Clayyyyyyyyyy
Of course, the most pressing thing was the awkwardness that comes when you are someone's house and are going through the introductions. For some reason, I feel so awful when this happens. I'm a very outgoing person naturally, but I equate introductions to an inquisition. "Hi, my name is Clay. Do you mind if I give you my life story before we sit down." It's just insecurity of course, but I do it every single time.
The first thing I noticed was how beautiful everyone's kids were. I just sat there gawking at these children that were all dressed up in their "Sunday" best, for just this occasion. My eyes were especially glued to this angelic little girl, whose name now escapes me. I mean, figure skating was on the TV, so "people watching" was what I was forced to do. You ever notice how sweet kids are when they are trying to integrate into the group? They slowly walk up and want to play....they have this sheepish look......they don't know what to say......finally, they get the courage and the next thing you know, they are breaking and tearing stuff up just like the other kids. It's a lot like dating....actually. But, I digress.
The entire time it was all I could muster not to tear up, because I was thinking about Emma. Emma was in Spartanburg with her cousins, but I wanted to be there....each kid that walked in front of me was a little older than the next. So, suddenly I was delving deep into my brain to remember Emma at 3, then at 5, then 7. My fondest Thanksgiving memory was when Emma was 4. Emma was really beginning to become chatty. I just remember her sitting on my stomach as we split some ice cream. "More, Daddy, quit eating all of it" I was inches from cracking up and crying a couple of times, but I knew I would have other opportunities to make an ass of myself...sure enough I did not disappoint.
Of course, you can't have a holiday without a few Griswald moments to go along. Speaking of which. "Christmas Vacation" has now officially replaced "A Christmas Story" as the movie to watch over the holidays. "Hey Clark, Shitter's full," says Uncle Eddie. That is just classic. Anyway, back to my Turkey day adventure. So, I was on my way to get my second helping of food when I made a big boo boo. I had somehow or another spilled something all over my lap. In addition, for the zillionth time, my fly was down. Why can't I remember something that most 3rd graders mastered while in Kingergarten. I think I'm just lazy when it comes to that, or I think that I am perpetually in pajama pants. How in the world did I get cranberry sauce on my pants....My entire purpose of the day was to get out alive. I should have prayed for not embarrassing myself while I was at it. No dice.
Well, I played it off pretty cool like, or so I thought. Slight of hand and all. As I am trying to clean myself out...while looking cool, I look up and yep, one of these cute little kids is looking at me like I was the boogeyman himself. It's bad enough that I wasn't family, but now I looked like a hobo with bladder issues. The little one took off in a Usain Bolt. I was terrified that I was going to have to explain my sheer lack of coordination to an angry parent that I just meant. Time to go, Clay.
Thanksgiving is not even near the top of the list of favorite holidays. I really didn't understand what it's all about. I mean, are we really celebrating pilgrims...Indians....whatever. I don't get it exactly. The part where we "give thanks" is where I get lost. I thought Thankgiving was the day before "Black Friday" As I stood in the middle of a room with mostly strangers, I finally figured it out. These folks are thankful for each other....for their family, their mothers, their cousins...it has nothing to do with the Cowboy game on the TV or the really good food we are about to devour.
My problem is that my family has divided into other families. My sister celebrates with her husband and his family. My daughter is with her mother and her family.....Nana even went out with some friends. My Dad has his family now. So, what's my family? I dunno. I've got Willie, but no one that shares my last name is stopping by. Why is that? My guess is that family's evolve.....and keep evolving.
I think I want more family. I miss it. Christmas is coming up and it's bittersweet.....sweet mostly, but you cannot have a holiday without thinking of those you have lost...and the ones you have, so I December is emotional, I guess. The good news is that the Monster will be here for a while and that's my present. Of course, she has ordered me to get a Xmas tree. I really was hoping I was through all the pageantry of Xmas, but when you have a 9 year old...forgeddaboutit.
It's not about being blessed more than others...It's not a race. It's not like Facebook where you can say.."Hey, I've got 229 friends." I just need one....thankfully.
I hope everyone had a good Thanksgiving.....see you soon.
Clayyyyyyyyyy
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